In what has been a solid, if uninspiring start to the season for Sheffield Wednesday, the Owls sit three points away from the Sky Bet Championship play off places, with Carlos Carvalhal’s side chasing yet another appearance in the end of season lottery.
Owls fans would love to avoid the stress and pressure of the end of season shoot-out, and many will look to the January transfer window in the hope that the club will bring in several new faces to provide the side with added impetus as they compete for an automatic promotion spot.
Carvalhal was quiet in the summer, with Jordan Rhodes and Jacob Butterfield the only notable additions to the squad, but chairman Dejphon Chansiri could be tempted to open the chequebook in the New Year if he is of the belief that Wednesday can seriously challenge for promotion.
Carvalhal needs to bring in the right men, and could target these three in his pursuit of the Premier League dream…
Jarrod Bowen
An injection of creativity could be exactly what the Owls need in January, and convincing Hull City to part with youngster Jarrod Bowen could be the perfect transfer for Carvalhal’s side.
Bowen has been sensational since breaking into the first team last season, and already has eight goals from the wing this semester.
With the Tigers struggling towards the bottom of the table and with little signs of challenging for an instant return to the Premier League, Bowen could be tempted to jump ship if Wednesday are in a strong position in January, and the 20-year-old has the potential to make a huge difference in any promotion bid the Hillsborough side launches.
Luke Freeman
Impressing for QPR this season, former Bristol City winger Freeman could represent an excellent value for money signing.
Signed in January for just £300,000, Freeman already has six assists for the R’s this term, and boss Ian Holloway could be tempted to sell the player in January to turn a quick profit for the cash-strapped Londoners.
Wednesday have struggled to find suitable, consistent candidates for the full-back positions in recent years, and Freeman could be the perfect man for Carvalhal to turn to, with the defender sure to listen to any potential offer from the Yorkshire side.
Joe Bryan
Another potential option to Wednesday’s full-back woes, Bryan has been one of the most consistent players in the division this season.
Performing well in a high-flying Bristol City side, the Robins academy graduate would be a wonderful signing for the Owls, but convincing him to leave if the Ashton Gate side are still in the promotion mix in January could prove very difficult.
The most unlikely of the three deals, Bryan would represent a significant update on Carvalhal’s current options, and the Portuguese boss should explore a deal if the circumstances are right.
Wednesday fans, who would you like to see the club target in January? Have your say below...